2013 Mercedes-Benz GL

The all-new GL is an ML, size XXL.

Albuquerque, New Mexico—The roads are smooth, the air is moist from recent thunderstorms and my left foot aches. I broke it yesterday, and it's now rigidly encased from the knee down. Though painful, it doesn't deter me from driving the brand-new Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTec. I simply set the a/c to max, engage the seat ventilators and position my leg to let the cool air help reduce the swelling.

2013 Mercedes Benz GL

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Three GL Models

There are three GLs available: the GL350 Bluetec, powered by a 240-bhp 3.0-liter turbodiesle V-6; the GL450, powered by a 362-bhp twin-turbo 4.7-liter V-8; and the GL550, powered by essentially the same twin-turbo V-8 but boosted to 429 bhp. A powerful GL63 AMG is on the horizon for early next year.

2013 Mercedes Benz GL

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The GL350 BlueTec makes an impressive 455 lb.-ft. of torque, slotting it right above the GL450 (406 lb.-ft.) and the GL550 (516 lb.-ft.). Every GL is equipped with 4Matic all-wheel drive and seating for seven. An extra foot of length, when compared to the ML, lets the GL have that third-row seat.

What it Costs

At $61,570, the GL350 diesel is the entry point into GL ownership. Not inexpensive. And the model I've hoisted myself into has more than $25,000 in options, making it more expensive than a base GL550, at $85,300. Thankfully, the GL550 comes well equipped and can't be optioned up too much. It is available, though, with rear-seat iPad docking stations that are infinitely cooler than a simple video display. Combine that with the WiFi hotspot option, and the kids will gladly go on that road trip. Not fair! My generation could only stare out the window...

2013 Mercedes Benz GL

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Not a Truck

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With fully independent suspension, the GL is nothing like the boxy G wagon with its live axles front and rear. It's very much like a longer ML. It has a decent amount of ground clearance (8.5 in.), even without the adjustable ride height suspension, which is part of an off-road package that includes a 2-speed transfer case with low-range gearing. Every GL has AirMatic suspension, a 7-speed automatic transmission and wheels that range from 19s to 21s.

Depending on the wheel and tire package, the ride quality of the GL on New Mexico's smooth roads is fine, without drama and not particular dynamism. Passengers may notice slight vibrations and rumbles that produce a resonance with the larger wheels. The 19-in. wheels easily gave the best ride, and there was little degradation in the steering feel. Steering feedback, however, is not the GL's strong point. Where an S-Class will track true and need little interaction to keep it straight, the GL requires more handwork to keep it on point.

2013 Mercedes Benz GL

It's a Mercedes

Apart from those critiques, the GL shines. The leatherette is indistinguishable from the leather covering most of the interior, and there's easy access to the rear seats with the optional 2nd row electric folding assist. If you literally have a family of seven, the GL will make everyone happy. Even the driver has a multitude of aids—to keep crosswinds at bay, to warn of an impending frontal collision when the coffee cup Attention Assist icon doesn't do its job.

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Good Technology

Aside from the standard Collision Prevention Assist that uses forward radar to alert for potential collisions, there is an optional Driving Assistance Plus package, which will actually go the next step and hit the brakes for you. More passive technology that can be appreciated every day is the optional 360-degree parking camera and Active Parking Assist that provides a bird's eye view when backing up. And in parallel parking situations, it will help find an appropriately large spot and then steer for you.

2013 Mercedes Benz GL

Why not an ML?

There is only one good reason to choose a GL over and ML—the need for more space and seats. The 7-seat GL is not just a bigger ML; it's a supersized ML. And it looks tougher, particularly with the optional AMG Exterior Sport Package.